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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Tetsudo (Way of Life), founded by B.S. Dhaliwal in 1967 in the UK, is a modern martial art centered on natural body mechanics and relaxed movement. The complete hierarchy of 4 colored belts (White, Green, Blue, Red) and 5 master Dans evaluates fluid non-telegraphed striking, self-defense, and holistic health.

1st Level – White Belt

White BeltRank #1
Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Basic natural stances, relaxed body movement, and foundational Tetsudo striking principles.

Symbolism & Meaning

British art founded by B.S. Dhaliwal in 1967 focused on natural body mechanics.

2nd Level – Green Belt

Green BeltRank #2
Typical gap since previous grade: 9 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Fluid moving punch and kick combos, unrigid defenses, and center of gravity control.

Symbolism & Meaning

Developing fluid energy without unnecessary muscle strain.

3rd Level – Blue Belt

Blue BeltRank #3
Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Advanced self-defense against grabs and weapons, controlled sparring, & evasions.

Symbolism & Meaning

Tetsudo = Way of life through health, self-defense, and harmonious philosophy.

4th Level – Red Belt

Red BeltRank #4
Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Applying Tetsudo principles against multiple attackers and instructor training.

Symbolism & Meaning

Pre-master rank requiring full mental and physical maturity.

5th Level – 1st Dan Black Belt

1st DanRank #5
Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Full master rank. Official instructor of the International Tetsudo Association.

Symbolism & Meaning

1st Dan = Black belt confirming mastery of the natural movement path.

6th Level – 2nd Dan

2nd DanRank #6
Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Advanced biomechanics, examination judging, and club instruction.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening natural power and relaxation in combat.

7th Level – 3rd Dan (Senior Master)

3rd Dan MasterRank #7
Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Senior master rank. Methodological leadership and evolution of Dhaliwal philosophy.

Symbolism & Meaning

Senior Master = Supreme authority and preserver of founder's legacy.

8th Level – 4th Dan

4th DanRank #8
Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

High master rank. Directing international Tetsudo seminars.

Symbolism & Meaning

High international authority in B.S. Dhaliwal system.

9th Level – 5th Dan (Grandmaster)

5th Dan GrandmasterRank #9
Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate
Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Grandmaster and global head of Tetsudo.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Direct successor and living guarantor of founder Dhaliwal.